A: I would recommend one coat of masonry primer/conditioner and two coats of a low-sheen enamel. Be sure that the surface is clean and prepped according to the label on the can of paint before you apply.

If there are smoke stains, you will need to prime with a stain blocking primer after the masonry primer.

For best results, I recommend visiting a specialty paint store (Sherwin Williams, Kelly Moore, etc. as opposed to a hardware or home improvement store that sells paint along with everything else). They will be in the best position to answer questions about your project and sell you the right paint and products.

If you decide to hire a professional painter to do that for you, visit Home Advisor, submit a service request for "Small Painting or Staining Projects," describe your project in the additional details box, to be matched with the ideal service professional in your area.

This information is by Tim Perryman of Perryman Painting in North Highlands, CA.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com